Addiction Studies - H024

Overview

Overview

The Addiction Studies Certificate has been developed in alignment with the Massachusetts Board of Substance Abuse Counselors Certification (MBSACC) requirements for the educational portion of Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) certificate. Courses reflect the educational portion of state certification requirements solely; additional requirements, including documented supervised hours of practice, may be needed in order to complete the CAC certification process.

Program Requirements

An orientation to human services. Particular emphasis on motivation for working in human services, personal attitudes and values, consumer empowerment, inclusion, and multicultural issues. Also includes a history of human services, an overview of the American human services systems, and an introduction to local human service agencies. There is a required Community Service Learning component. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENG 101

An introduction to support systems that assist people with recovery from substance abuse and dependence. Theories of addiction will be highlighted in reference to issues in treatment, relapse, and prevention. Emphasis will be placed on understanding modalities of treatment and care for diverse populations affected by substance abuse issues. Relevant state and federal legislation and the role of culture will also be discussed. Prerequisites: ENG 101 eligible

This course helps the student develop the knowledge, skills and personal characteristics that are critical for an effective helping relationship. Students will explore helper attitudes and values, increase awareness of themselves and others, and develop active listening, empowerment, case management, and crisis intervention skills. Course material is built upon research about human behavior, life stage theory, intervention strategies and strength-based practice. Prerequisite: HSV 113 and PSY 110

Introduction to the study and principles of behavior. Topics include general principles of scientific investigation; physiological bases of behavior including sensation, perception, learning, emotion, and motivation; development; individual differences; attitudes; and group dynamics. Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENG 101.

This courses introduces concepts relevant to the diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse, including the disease concept; the effect of alcohol and other drugs on the body; medical complications; the effect of substance abuse problems on the family and others; and special issues related to populations such as adolescents, individuals at risk for suicide, women, the elderly, and individuals with a dual diagnosis. Same as HSV 208. Prerequisite: PSY 110 or SOC 110

This course facilitates students' understanding of ethical dilemmas and problem-solving frameworks related to the professional conduct in the helping professions. In addition to presenting the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS) Ethical Code of Conduct, and Code of Ethics from other professional organizations as a guide, students will apply professional standards in Human Services. Prerequisites: HSV 113

This course provides students with an opportunity to learn theoretical frameworks and techniques for assisting individuals with addiction issues. Students will gain an awareness of societal, social and intercultural contexts of the historical approaches to addiction counseling. Students will develop knowledge of the range and nature of treatment modalities currently used in substance abuse counseling. Through the use of role-play, case studies and videos, students will develop a personal style of interaction to support individuals with addiction issues. Prerequisites: HSV 120 and HSV 124

Program Electives (select 1 from list below)

This course is an introduction to the variety of cultural, ethnic and racial groups, with the goal of examining stereotypes and developing an appreciation of cultural diversity. Each time the course is offered, the heritage and culture of several distinct groups will be studied in detail, with special emphasis on the groups most common to the Connecticut River Valley. Students will be encouraged to investigate their own cultural heritage, as well as that of other groups.

An examination of domestic violence from human services, historical, psychological, cross-cultural, legal, and sociological perspectives. The extent, types, and causes of domestic violence will be analyzed. Prevention and intervention strategies necessary to those working with women, men, and children who have been affected by domestic violence will also be covered. Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENG 101

Emphasizes development of group membership skills necessary for professional practice. Through group exercises students experience concepts being studied and are given the opportunity to develop basic skills in observing and understanding human behavior, including their own, in a group context. Basic concepts in group dynamics such as cohesion, interactional patterns, roles and responsibilities within a group, norms, status, group culture, and content vs. process will be discussed. In addition, the various stages of group development and the tasks involved in each will be introduced. An understanding of the leader's role in creating a facilitating environment during the different stages of group development will also be discussed. Prerequisite: PSY 110

A study of human development with emphasis on the broad physical, maturational, and behavioral changes occurring throughout the life span and the factors and conditions that influence these changes. Prerequisite: PSY 110

Abnormal behavior, including major categories of deviant behavior. Emphasis is on various contemporary approaches to their understanding and treatment. Prerequisite: PSY 110

CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) and SORI (Sexual Offender Registry Information) background checks may be required prior to filed work and practicum placement and will be conducted by specific agencies in accordance with state regulations. CORI and SORI results are confidential.

Depending on the course selection, 50% of this program can be completed online.